Champions League Draw: Liverpool to Face Galatasaray in Round of 16
NYON, 27 February 2026 — The draw for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 has been finalised this morning at UEFA headquarters in Switzerland, pitting Premier League giants Liverpool against Turkish champions Galatasaray. The fixture comes amid heightened tensions following a recent league phase meeting and persistent transfer rumours linking Galatasaray’s Roland Sallai with a move to Anfield.
Fixture Dates and Venue Details
Following the draw in Nyon, UEFA has confirmed the provisional scheduling for the two-legged tie. Liverpool will travel to Istanbul for the first leg, with the return fixture set for Merseyside.
- First Leg: 10/11 March 2026 – RAMS Park, Istanbul
- Second Leg: 17/18 March 2026 – Anfield, Liverpool
A Grudge Match in the Making
The draw sets up a “revenge” mission for Arne Slot’s side. During the newly formatted league phase earlier this season, Galatasaray secured a famous 1-0 victory over the Reds. Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen had publicly stated prior to the draw that he hoped to avoid Liverpool in the knockout stages, fearing a motivated Liverpool side seeking to rectify that defeat.
Public sentiment in Istanbul is at an all-time high, with supporters reportedly planning elaborate choreographies for the home leg. Conversely, some Liverpool fan circles have described the previous loss as an “injustice,” claiming the Reds dominated the statistics despite the scoreline.
Transfer Subplot: Roland Sallai
Adding another layer of intrigue to the clash is the ongoing speculation regarding Galatasaray’s Roland Sallai. Reports emerged just 24 hours ago that Liverpool have “made contact” regarding the Hungarian international. Sallai, who joined the Turkish club from Freiburg in 2024, has been tipped as a potential right-back or attacking winger option for the Reds. The player’s father has recently been vocal in the media, fueling rumours of a Premier League switch.
Historical Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Galatasaray has proven to be a “bogey team” for the six-time European champions. In their limited competitive meetings, the Turkish side holds a slight edge in the win count.
| Date | Competition | Fixture | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 February 2002 | UEFA Champions League | Liverpool vs Galatasaray | 0-0 |
| 26 February 2002 | UEFA Champions League | Galatasaray vs Liverpool | 1-1 |
| 27 September 2006 | UEFA Champions League | Liverpool vs Galatasaray | 3-2 |
| 05 December 2006 | UEFA Champions League | Galatasaray vs Liverpool | 3-2 |
Key Statistics
- Total Matches: 5 (excluding 2025/26 league phase)
- Galatasaray Victories: 2
- Liverpool Victories: 1
- Draws: 2
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the next Liverpool vs Galatasaray match?
The teams will meet in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 on either 10 or 11 March 2026 in Istanbul.
Who is the Galatasaray player linked to Liverpool?
Roland Sallai is the primary subject of recent transfer reports. The Hungarian international has been linked with a move to Anfield following impressive performances in Turkey.
How many Champions League titles do the teams have?
Liverpool has won the competition 6 times (most recently in 2018/19). Galatasaray has won 0 Champions League titles, though they are former UEFA Cup winners.
Where can I watch the Champions League Round of 16?
In the United Kingdom, the matches will be broadcast live on TNT Sports. International viewers should check local listings for UEFA broadcast partners.